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How to Grow Lemongrass

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

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Supplies You'll Need

Seed Starting Trays Seed Starting Mix Grow Lights Heat Mat Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Cymbopogon citratus
Category herb
Type Tropical Perennial
Days to Maturity 100 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Moderate-High (1-2 inches/week)

Spacing

24" apart

Depth

0.5" deep

Height

3-5 ft

Germination

10-21 days

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Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Lemongrass rarely flowers in temperate climates. Propagate by dividing clumps in spring.

Division is the standard propagation method — separate outer stalks with roots attached and replant.

Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 8 plants of Lemongrass. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Lemongrass Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Lemongrass Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Lemongrass? +

Start Lemongrass seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 4 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Lemongrass take to grow? +

Lemongrass typically matures in about 100 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Lemongrass indoors or direct sow? +

Lemongrass should be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Lemongrass need? +

Lemongrass requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Lemongrass? +

Space Lemongrass plants 24 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Lemongrass need? +

Lemongrass has moderate-high (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Lemongrass? +

Lemongrass is not typically propagated by seed. Lemongrass rarely flowers in temperate climates. Propagate by dividing clumps in spring. Division is the standard propagation method — separate outer stalks with roots attached and replant.

About Lemongrass

Tropical grass with intense lemon flavor and aroma, essential in Thai and Vietnamese cooking. Treat as annual in Zone 8 and below or overwinter indoors. Also a natural mosquito repellent.

Expect your Lemongrass to be ready for harvest in approximately 100 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.